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## Undergraduate open days

Visit us this October or November to find out why we’re top 10 in the UK for course quality and employability.

Uni Compare 2027 Rankings

Book now

Undergraduate BA (Hons)

# Politics

Challenge the ways of the world on our politics degree. Explore global issues, shape debates, and gain experience via placements, volunteering, and projects.

Open days Apply now via UCAS

## Course overview

* UCAS code

* Institution code

* Main location

City Campus

* Attendance

Full-Time

* Duration

* Start date

20 Sep 2027

Politics shapes every aspect of our lives, from climate action and migration to human rights, global conflict, the crisis of capitalism, and the future of democracy. On this course, you’ll explore the ideas, power struggles, and political movements influencing societies around the world while developing the critical thinking and practical skills employers value.

You’ll question assumptions, challenge dominant narratives, and debate some of the most pressing and divisive issues facing society today. Through interactive learning, live projects, and industry exposure, you’ll examine topics including inequality, populism, global justice, environmental change, and the rise of political extremism.

You’ll choose from one of four pathways*:

* BA (Hons) Politics (UCAS code L200)

* BA (Hons) Politics with Global Development (UCAS code L208)

* BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations (UCAS code L201)

* BA (Hons) Politics with Human Rights (UCAS code L203)

As part of this course, you’ll:

* Explore politics from local, national, and international perspectives

* Examine political ideas, ideologies, institutions, and systems of governance

* Evaluate the nature and distribution of power, governance systems, processes, and institutions

* Analyse political events using evidence, critical judgement, and reasoned argument

* Consider how political movements and ideologies, from liberalism to Marxism, influence societies

* Develop practical research, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills

* Build professional experience through volunteering, live projects, and placement opportunities

*You can apply for any of the listed pathways using the UCAS codes provided.

BA (Hons) Politics with Global Development

Explore the global changes shaping our future, including poverty, inequality, economic crises, and international development. You’ll examine how power and resources are distributed across the world and investigate development theories and real-world solutions to social and political challenges.

BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations

Discover how states, institutions, and global actors interact on the world stage. You’ll explore diplomacy, security, conflict, environmental politics, and active citizenship while gaining insight into how international decisions affect people’s lives across the globe.

BA (Hons) Politics with Human Rights

Examine debates surrounding justice, equality, and the universality of human rights. You’ll explore how human rights frameworks operate internationally and critically assess their effectiveness in addressing social and political issues.

Immersive learning

Bring politics to life through guest speakers, live debates, volunteering, and opportunities to study abroad. You’ll engage with contemporary political issues beyond the classroom while building the confidence, experience, and global outlook needed for your future career.

You’ll also have opportunities to attend events such as our annual Politics and International Relations festival, hearing from academics, campaigners, policymakers, and industry professionals.

Building your future potential

From your first year, you’ll begin developing the professional skills and experience needed for a wide range of careers. You’ll have opportunities to take part in live employer-set projects, placement opportunities, and practical learning activities designed to boost your employability.

As part of the Active Citizenship module, you’ll complete a volunteering placement linked to causes that matter to you. Previous students have supported refugees learning English, worked with food banks, and contributed to international teaching projects.

Politics in practice

Apply your knowledge to real political and social challenges through practical projects and simulations. You could design a campaign or proposal for a non-government organisation, pitch ideas through mock interviews and lobbying exercises, or develop solutions to issues linked to globalisation, development, and social justice.

Research expertise

You’ll learn from a team of research-active academics whose work influences policy and social change across the world. Many members of the course team contribute to government-funded research and advise international organisations and policymakers, ensuring your learning reflects current political debates and real-world developments.

Read more

### Why study the BA Politics course at Leeds Beckett University?

1. 100% of students on BA (Hons) Politics (with pathways) were positive about how teaching staff supported their learning*

2. Flexible pathways available, with the option to change direction after your first year to specialise in global development, international relations, or human rights

3. Gain real-world experience with fantastic placement, volunteering, live project, and study abroad opportunities

4. Hear from and connect with experts during guest lectures and the annual Politics and International Relations festival

5. Gain global insights with research-led teaching informed by substantial political expertise

*National Student Survey 2026

## Explore videos and blogs

Politics at Leeds Beckett | Course Overview Interested in understanding political systems and the forces shaping society? Our staff and students offer an inside look at our BA (Hons) Politics course. Explore key topics and discover how this degree can pave the way for a variety of careers.

of students on BA (Hons) Politics (with pathways) were positive about how teaching staff supported their learning

National Student Survey 2026

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Politics students excel at BISA Climate Simulation

Politics and International Relations Festival at Leeds Beckett University Hear more about what the annual Politics and International Relations Festival involves

BLOG School of Humanities and Social Sciences

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Pursuing politics and international relations to address concerns I'm passionate about

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Empowering Change: A Journey with Sophia Price, Head of Politics and International Relations at Leeds Beckett

We Support: Volunteering opportunities at Leeds Beckett

Why climate change is causing conflict in Africa Dr Olayinka Ajala, a lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Leeds Beckett University, shares his ground-breaking research into why climate change is causing conflict in Africa and explains how this feeds into his teaching so that students can relate what they are learning to current world issues.

School of Humanities and Social Sciences Politics and International Relations trip to Armley Mills

Blog | School of Humanities and Social Sciences

## Everything you need to know

Discover all there is to know about the course, from entry requirements and fees to exploring the school you’ll be joining - we’ve got it covered.

#### Entry requirements

[Button: UK ] [Button: International ]

points required

If you’re unsure how to work out your UCAS points we have a UCAS Tariff Calculator which will do it for you. All you need to do is enter your qualifications and let the UCAS Tariff Calculator do the maths.

We have welcomed students from over 140 countries to study at Leeds Beckett University. If you are interested in studying with us you can find all the information you need about entry requirements and how to apply on our country specific pages.

Find my Country

View full entry requirements

Entry Requirements Information

BA (Hons)

Politics

### Entry requirements

UCAS Tariff Points: 104-112 points required.

(Minimum 64-72 from two A Levels or equivalent, excluding General Studies).

If you're applying via UCAS, find out more about how your qualifications fit into the UCAS tariff .

##### GCSEs

GCSE English Language at Grade 4 or above (Grade C for GCSEs taken before 2017) or equivalent. Key Skills Level 2, Functional Skills Level 2 and the Certificate in Adult Literacy are accepted in place of GCSEs.

##### Access to HE Diploma

Pass overall with a minimum of 104-112 UCAS tariff points.

##### T Levels

Pass overall with a minimum of 104-112 UCAS tariff points, including a C or above on the core.

##### Scottish Awards

104-112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 4 Highers of which at least 2 must be grade B or above.

##### Irish Leaving Certificate

104-112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 5 subjects at higher level of which at least 3 must be grade H3 or above.

##### International baccalaureate

104-112 UCAS tariff points or a score of 28 from the IB diploma. This should include a minimum of 3 Highers with 2 at grade H5 or above

##### IELTS

IELTS 6.0 with no skills below 5.5, or an equivalent qualification. The University provides excellent support for any applicant who may be required to undertake additional English language courses.

##### Selection Criteria

We may use selection criteria based on your personal attributes; experience and/or commitment to the area of study. This information will be derived from your personal statement and reference and will only be used if you have met the general entry requirements.

##### How we assess your application

At Leeds Beckett we look for students who demonstrate a good knowledge, curiosity and passion for your chosen course and would benefit from the University’s learning environment.

We aim to give every student a fair chance to progress and succeed on their chosen course and we recognise that your grades may not always reflect your true potential. Therefore, when assessing your application, we will consider the following:

* Your completed qualifications (such as GCSEs, A Levels, and their equivalents).

* Your predicted grades in future examinations.

* Your personal statement.

##### Our offers

All our offers are made by trained professionals who are committed to making offers that are appropriate to each applicant, regardless of their background.* They have the discretion to vary the level of offer to ensure every student with the potential to succeed at Leeds Beckett receives an offer that is achievable for them.

This could mean that you may receive an offer to study on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.  Your offer will be based on our belief that you are capable of benefiting from, and successfully completing, your course. We believe that it is people who think differently, independently, people with ‘unlike-minds' that make big things happen.

*We operate a contextual admissions policy, which means we consider a range of additional factors when we assess a student’s application. Applicants who meet at least one of our contextual admissions criteria may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points than our published tariff.

Our contextual admissions criteria are:

* Home postcode is in an area where few people go to University (POLAR4 quintile 1 or 2 area. This can be checked on the Office for Students website).

* Declared disability on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).

* Over the age of 21 on the 1st of September before the course starts.

* Declared as a care experienced on the UCAS application form (or direct application for part-time applicants).

##### Our place as an Anchor Institution

To further strengthen our position as a key provider of education and training for West Yorkshire we apply an Anchor Institution Policy in our admissions process. Students who apply to us from any of the five Local Authority areas in West Yorkshire (BD, HD, HX, LS, WF) may be offered a place on this course with lower (predicted or achieved) UCAS Tariff Points.

##### Mature Applicants

Our university welcomes applications from mature applicants who demonstrate academic potential. All students will be considered through the contextual admissions policy described above. If you do not meet the requirements through the contextual admissions policy, we may still be able to make you an offer if you have recent relevant work experience through our 'Recognition of Prior Learning' policy.

Please ensure that you list both your qualifications and any relevant work experience in your application so that we can consider you under both schemes where applicable. All applicants should meet our standard entry requirements of GCSE grade 4 in English language and, where specified, Maths. Alternative qualifications such as functional skills are accepted in lieu of GCSEs for most courses.

##### Additional entry requirements:

##### Verify your qualifications

If you are an international student, we can help you to compare and verify your qualifications. Please contact our International Office on +44 (0)113 812 1111 09.00 to 17.00 Mon-Thurs / 09.00 to 16.30 Fri GMT or email internationaloffice@leedsbeckett.ac.uk.

##### Need to improve your English Language skills?

Don't worry if you don't have the level of English required for your chosen course. We offer a wide range of courses which have been designed to help you to improve your qualifications and English language ability, most of which are accredited by the British Council. Check your English and find out more about our English courses .

##### More questions?

No matter what your questions, we are here to answer them, visit our International website to get more information and find out about our online open days.

#### Modules, teaching and learning

Independent study is a crucial part of learning at university and you will be required to undertake many hours of self-directed research and reading, and preparation and writing of assessments. Your course is delivered through a number of modules, which will help you to plan your time and establish a study routine. Outside of your lectures, workshops and tutorials, a range of support is available to assist with your independent study.

Our subject-specific librarians will be on hand to direct you to the specialist learning and study-skill resources. You’ll also be assigned an academic advisor to give you tailored feedback and support.

Modules, Workload & More

Teaching and Learning Information

### Modules, teaching and learning

The tabs below detail what and how you will study in each year of your course. The balance of assessments and overall workload will be informed by your core modules and the option modules you choose to study; the information provided is an indication of what you can expect and may be subject to change. The option modules listed are also an indication of what will be available to you.

Their availability is subject to demand and you will be advised which option modules you can choose at the beginning of each year of study.

[Button: Year 1 ] [Button: Year 2 ] [Button: Year 3 ]

#### What you'll learn

Politics, Ethics & Justice Political Movements & Ideologies World Politics Introduction to Political Economy Introduction to Governance

Explore a series of real world concerns as a starting point from which to look at issues in contemporary political theory. By looking at issues such as freedom, equality, violence and rights, you will attempt to provoke critical engagement and reflection on the contested nature of contemporary political theory.

Political ideologies may be understood as frameworks of political understanding and commitment that are at the heart of political debate and have helped to shape the world we live in. You will explore the core ideas and beliefs of these major ideologies, to examine debates within and between ideologies, and to develop your own critical thinking in this area.

Understand the the nature and structure of the international system, and how modern states evolve and develop. Consider the evolution of the 20th Century States System, beginning with the decline of pax-Britannica, the inter-war crisis, the emergence of pax-Americana, the establishment and design of key international institutions, the Cold War, the end of the Cold War, rise of non-state actors, globalisation, the decline of the west and the rise of China, the ongoing economic crisis and democratisation.

Gain a critical introduction to the history and contemporary evolution of political economy. You will engage with a variety of key historical thinkers and theoretical approaches in order to develop a qualitative understanding of the rich tapestry of political economy.

Politics is fundamentally concerned with governance, which involves making and implementing collective decisions and rules. You will see how this involves a range of actors and institutions and is not just a matter for government or the state. UK governance will be the main focus but the United States will also be referred to in a comparative approach. You will also see how governance operates at multiple levels, not just within a national framework.

Politics, Ethics & Justice

Political Movements & Ideologies

World Politics

Introduction to Political Economy

Introduction to Governance

Active Citizenship (all pathways) Global Inequalities (all pathways) Decolonising Politics (Politics) Britain in the World (Politics / International Relations pathway) Environment & World Politics (International Relations pathway) Political Economy of Development (Global Development pathway) Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution (Global Development pathway) International Human Rights (Human Rights pathway) Slavery & Unfree Labour (Human Rights pathway) You'll study either (Human Rights / Global Development pathways): Britain in the World Or Decolonising Politics

Investigate the concept of citizenship and actively engage with it by undertaking a voluntary placement. This placement will be related to the scope of your course and reflect on their experiences to enhance your employability.

Inequality is everywhere. People are treated differently or affected disproportionately because of their gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, age, disability, and immigration status. In this module you will conduct research on how inequalities are present at local, national and global levels.

This module will provide an advanced introduction to current debates about the persisting relevance of colonialism to thinking about politics today. It will introduce you to the critical theoretical literature around ‘coloniality’ and race from post-colonial and decolonial perspectives and applies these ideas to contemporary political issues.

Review the recent history of British foreign policy starting in 1945. You'll explore contemporary debates regarding Britain's place in the world following Brexit. This module will cover topics such as the British empire and its legacy, the development of the Commonwealth, the UK's key strategic relationships with the United States and the European Union, and Britain's role in systems of global governance.

During your study, you'll investigate key decision-points in post-war British foreign policy including the Suez crisis, entry into the European Community, the Falklands War, negotiations over the status of Hong Kong, the Iraq War and Brexit.

Gain an overview of contemporary environmental debates, with a particular focus on climate change and its consequences. You'll critically assess the evidence for global environmental crisis, and efforts at global cooperation to address the issues. This module will consider issues such as responsibility, and the role of environmental movements and alternative models of development.

Take a critical political economy approach to development in the Global South. You'll study the evolution and dynamics of development policy and practice in the Global South, from the period of post WWII state-led development to contemporary processes of neoliberal globalisation. You'll engage with a variety of theoretical approaches in order to understand issues facing development in the Global South.

This module will also explore the roles and links between key institutions and actors at the global, national and local level.

Understand and examine the way communities, states, organisations and institutions tackle violent conflicts (or potentially violent conflict situations). Using a range of theoretical models, case studies from around the world, and by relating this to your own experience, you'll learn about your own conflict styles, how to analyse conflicts and the different roles played by the UN and local communities in peacebuilding.

You'll also become familiar with current debates in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

Explore the historical evolution of international human rights law at the United Nations. You will explore what rights are covered by the conventions and how the UN and human rights advocates use these legal mechanisms to promote and protect human rights internationally.

Study how labour in the British empire was extracted by coercive means through four main case studies: slave societies in the Caribbean, colonial Indian indentureship, slavery at the Cape between the 17th and 19th centuries and forced labour in West Africa during the interwar and World War II period.

You will examine the development of slave systems and other mechanisms to compel colonised people to work, the economic and ideological rationale behind transitions to enslaved labour, the ways in which slaveholders, planters and overseers controlled workers and the many ways in which workers resisted their bondage.

This module also considers the creation of new identities and cultures amongst slaves and other unfree labourers, the different experiences of men and women, and the rise of British anti-slavery from the 18th up to the mid-20th century.

This module will provide an advanced introduction to current debates about the persisting relevance of colonialism to thinking about politics today. It will introduce you to the critical theoretical literature around 'coloniality' and race from post-colonial and decolonial perspectives and applies these ideas to contemporary political issues.

Active Citizenship (all pathways)

Global Inequalities (all pathways)

Decolonising Politics (Politics)

Britain in the World (Politics / International Relations pathway)

Environment & World Politics (International Relations pathway)

Political Economy of Development (Global Development pathway)

Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution (Global Development pathway)

International Human Rights (Human Rights pathway)

Slavery & Unfree Labour (Human Rights pathway)

You'll study either (Human Rights / Global Development pathways):

Britain in the World

Decolonising Politics

#### Option modules may include

Environment & World Politics International Human Rights Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution Political Economy of Development State & Power Understanding Security Content Creators: Media Skills for a Changing World Media Professionals' Workshop Thatcher's Britain Genocide & the Politics of Memory (Human Rights / Global Development pathways only)

The state plays a fundamental part in social life and in shaping social development. It is a central concept in political analysis. On this module, you'll investigate the nature, development and prospects of the state using a variety of theoretical approaches.

You'll consider big questions about the state such as why should we obey it? Who has power and how is political influence exercised? Does business exercise unrivalled influence? What are the arguments for growing or shrinking the state? Is globalisation forcing the state to retreat?

Gain an overview of contemporary security issues, encompassing different perspectives from the state to the individual, and how security threats have changed over time and continue to change.

Explore issues of content creation across a range of media platforms and contexts. You'll ask questions such as: What is 'content'? Who is our content for? What are the ethical and political issues around content production? How do technological advances affect content creation? Using storytelling methods as a key strategy, you'll evaluate, design and execute creative content for various settings.

You'll investigate various topics from a personal/political perspective and develop transferable skills through the consideration of wider issues facing contemporary media practice. In addition, the module will build valuable transferable skills in demand by employers in various sectors, including creativity, reflexivity and criticality.

Explore some of the features of professional working practices within the media and cultural industry sectors. During this module you will have the opportunity to work on a practice-based project and learn from visiting tutors who are working in areas such as online marketing, publishing, television and radio production.

You will also undertake a series of online-workshop reflective tasks covering aspects of a range of professional skills to help you identify your strengths, develop your skills and prepare you for your future career.

Gain an understanding of late 20th century Britain by exploring some of the key themes in its social and cultural history during the period c.1979-1990. You'll develop skills in working with primary and secondary sources, and the ability to communicate ideas effectively.

Examine the origins, implementation and aftermaths of genocide by engaging extensively with historiography and contemporary debates about victims and perpetrators, the `grey zone? of resistance, collaboration and survival, and particularly the politics of remembrance. This module will also encourage you to critically examine why past genocides, such as the Nazi Holocaust, have assumed such importance in contemporary society.

You will engage with debates about the politics of commemoration requiring the use of theory and empirical evidence and consider the language and history of remembrance in relation to genocide.

Environment & World Politics

International Human Rights

Peacebuilding & Conflict Resolution

Political Economy of Development

State & Power

Understanding Security

Content Creators: Media Skills for a Changing World

Media Professionals' Workshop

Thatcher's Britain

Genocide & the Politics of Memory (Human Rights / Global Development pathways only)

Dissertation (all pathways) Governing Globalisation (all pathways) You'll study either (all pathways): Policy Making Or Making Sense of British Politics Migration & Displacement (Global Development pathway) Resist! Confronting State Harm (Human Rights pathway)

Focus on a subject of your choosing related to politics and your own future aspirations. You will be required to select a politics-based dissertation topic and to engage with theoretical, methods and empirical material that is appropriate to study in this field. You will identify, plan and deliver a sustained and in-depth piece of work, linking it to theory, and critically reflect on your subject matter and research findings.

Get an introduction to the ideas of global governance and globalisation and the intersection between them. You will begin to think critically about future patterns of world order and their institutionalisation.

Explore the operation, practice and context of contemporary policy making at the national level. Examine the actors, mechanisms and practice of policy making, and the drivers of policy change, via a focus on specific case studies. You will engage with key decision making theories and models of the policy process, exploring how institutional analyses and other theoretical approaches help to understand the complexity of the policy process.

Recent years have seen British politics navigating multiple seismic and systemic events, from the 2008 financial crisis and the following period of austerity, to Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. This module will help you to make sense of British politics in these era-defining moments by charting its most significant developments over the last century.

You'll examine the current condition of Britain and consider the key issues and challenges faced in British politics today, as well as how British politics might develop in the future. In covering the past, present, and future of British politics, you'll gain a detailed understanding of its key actors, institutions, processes and ideologies. You'll also build techniques for critical analysis and develop your own evidence-based arguments about the subject.

There are currently more than 280 million migrants on the move in the world. Millions of refugees and other people have been displaced from their homes due to violence, economic desperation, climate change, conflict and persecution. Although this is not a new problem, this level of displacement and forced and voluntary mobility is unprecedented and is increasingly framed as a crisis.

This module will give you a strong understanding of how the social and political geographies of displacement and migration are produced, experienced and governed at various scales. You'll also examine how local communities are responding to the complex issues experienced by displaced people and migrant communities.

Dissertation (all pathways)

Governing Globalisation (all pathways)

You'll study either (all pathways):

Policy Making

Making Sense of British Politics

Migration & Displacement (Global Development pathway)

Resist! Confronting State Harm (Human Rights pathway)

Rethinking Diplomacy (International Relations pathway) Advanced Surveillance International Peacekeeping International Political Economy Non-Violent Resistance Resist! Confronting State Harm Migration & Displacement Rethinking Diplomacy The Politics of Human Rights Apartheid & After: Twentieth Century South Africa Communist Eastern Europe1945 - 1990: Peeking Behind the Iron Curtain Four Seasons of Modern Italy: Nationalism, Liberalism, Fascism & Democracy Race, Culture, Media Surveillance Cultures Heretics & Renegades

Explore the operation, practice and context of contemporary diplomacy and international relations. You'll study the traditional forms of and approaches to diplomacy. And you'll analyse the impact of changes in the international system on the practice and operation of international relations.

Investigate the related issues of terrorism, security and human rights. You will explore the synthesis between the fear of terrorism which is a pervasive threat felt by both states and individuals, the response to these threats that states adopt in creating security policy, and the impact upon human and civil rights.

Study the development of peacekeeping, differences in missions and roles, and current theories of peacekeeping. This will include deterrence, relationship building, proactive presence, conflict resolution and unarmed civilian peacekeeping.

Discover the field of study known as International Political Economy (IPE). You will engage with a variety of theoretical and empirical debates in order to situate and understand the field of IPE and its major object of study globalisation. Emphasis will be placed on how different theoretical approaches seek to understand, reform and critique the contemporary global political economy.

Through a series of workshops, you will focus on the politics of social justice and nonviolent resistance, the context within which activism takes place, and the key players that undertake the work of social change. You will explore these issues in greater depth through case studies of activism undertaken in particular geographical areas (i.e Africa, Myanmar, Russia, Brazil) as well as on different issues (i.e Corruption, landrights, oppression and environmental protection).

Focus on the politics of human rights movement, the context within which it operates and its key players. Workshops will allow you to explore these issues in greater depth as well as providing the opportunity for group work and practical exercises.

Study the complex and contested history of 20th-century South Africa by focusing on the development, implementation, and aftermaths of the apartheid system of racial segregation and discrimination. You will study key themes including the aftermath of the 1899-1902 South African ('Boer') War, the development of a distinctive Afrikaner identity during the 1920s and 30s, changing ideas about race and class, and the formal establishment of apartheid in 1948.

Your studies will also consider aspects of social and cultural life under apartheid, for example the so-called 'Drum' decade of the 1950s, and the roles and experiences of women, underpinned by a critical consideration of the historiography of gender in South Africa. You will also consider opposition to apartheid, and the formal end of apartheid and white minority rule in 1994.

The module will conclude by considering developments in South Africa post-1994, focusing on political transformation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the construction of 'new nationalisms' and the writing of new histories.

Study the initial spread of communism after 1945 to the collapse of communism in the revolutions of 1989/90. You will explore the onset of the Cold War that led to the division of Europe into `West' and `East' by the `iron curtain'. Your studies will look at the communist monopoly of power and Soviet control over Eastern Europe, and the numerous challenges, upheavals and compromises it underwent between 1945 and 1989.

In addition to high-profile popular challenges to the ruling authorities such as the Hungarian Revolution of 1956 and the Prague Spring of 1968, this module will also see you consider the various reforms adopted, the increasing role of dissent, and some of the ways that people reacted to, reshaped and resisted communism in their everyday lives.

Explore 'race' as a mechanism used to justify oppression, slavery and genocide. But what exactly is `race'? How do racisms manifest and change over time? How can we challenge racial discrimination within the media and wider society? These are some of the important questions that this module critically investigates.

You will examine and understand the historical and contemporary significance of `race', ethnicity and culture before beginning to apply your knowledge to different aspects of popular culture such as film, TV, social media, advertising and fashion, music, and sport.

The spread and normalisation of surveillance encourages us to ask if surveillance is the primary form of contemporary governance. You'll examine the impact of surveillance on our identities and lives with specific concerns about issues of privacy, the inability to 'forget', and the need to self-surveil and 'share' as part of normal citizenship.

Study the historical and socially constructed nature of freedom, crime and criminality within the law. You will look at examples of social movements that illuminate how the law itself is a field of contestation, including piracy, file sharing and poll tax rebellion.

Rethinking Diplomacy (International Relations pathway)

Advanced Surveillance

International Peacekeeping

International Political Economy

Non-Violent Resistance

Resist! Confronting State Harm

Migration & Displacement

Rethinking Diplomacy

The Politics of Human Rights

Apartheid & After: Twentieth Century South Africa

Communist Eastern Europe1945 - 1990: Peeking Behind the Iron Curtain

Four Seasons of Modern Italy: Nationalism, Liberalism, Fascism & Democracy

Race, Culture, Media

Surveillance Cultures

Heretics & Renegades

#### Fees and funding

The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £10050.

This is the current capped fee for English universities set by the Government. In subsequent years of study, the University may charge any increased capped fee set by the Government.

International 2027

The tuition fee for the year for students entering in 2027/28 is £17345.

Find out more

Fees and funding information

### Fees and funding

For students entering in 2027

#### Additional course costs

##### Tuition Fees

Your tuition fees cover the cost of registration, tuition, academic supervision, assessments and examinations.

The following are also included in the cost of your course:

* 24/7 Library and student IT support

* Free wifi via eduroam

* Skills workshops and resources

* Library membership, giving access to more than 500,000 printed, multimedia and digital resources

* Access to software, including five free copies of Microsoft Office 365 to install on your PC,laptop and MAC, and access to free high-end software via the Leeds Beckett remote app

* Loan of high-end media equipment to support your studies

In many cases, costs associated with your course will be included in your course fee. However, in some cases there are ‘essential’ additional costs (those that you will be required to meet in addition to your course fee), and/or ‘optional’ additional costs (costs that are not required, but that you might choose to pay). We have included those essential or optional additional costs that relate to your course, below.

##### Essential Costs

* Work experience, placements, study related to live brief projects and/or any additional course experiences may involve travel. You'll need to pay for any additional travel or dual accommodation costs. You'll also be encouraged to make use of contacts in Leeds or your hometown to minimise these costs.

##### Optional Costs

* Educational visit costs will vary and will be dependent on details and location. Costs you'll need to pay could include travel, accommodation and subsistence.

Other study-related expenses to consider: materials that you will need to complete your course such as books (whilst the library provides access to readings recommended for your modules, you may wish to purchase your own copies of some books); you can also make suggestions for books to be added to Library stock; placement costs (these may include travel expenses and living costs); student visas (international students only); printing, photocopying and stationery (you may need to pay for multiple copies of your dissertation or final project to be printed and bound); events associated with your course such as field trips; study abroad opportunities (travel costs and accommodation, visas and immunisations).

Other costs could include academic conferences (travel costs) and professional-body membership (where applicable). The costs you will need to cover for graduation will include gown hire and guest tickets, and optional extras such as professional photography.

As well as your mobile phone, you will also need access to a desktop computer and/or laptop to complete assignments and access university online services such as MyBeckett, your virtual learning environment. You can book and borrow AV equipment through the media equipment service accessed online via the student hub and located in the library at each campus.

Equipment includes: 360 Cameras, iPads, GoPros, MacBooks, portable data projectors, portable projection screens, flipchart stands, remote presenters, digital cameras and camcorders, SLR cameras, speakers, microphones, headphones, headsets, tripods, digital audio recorders and PC/laptops (a laptop loans service is provided on campus in the library on both campuses). Student laptops are also available from the laptop lockers located in the libraries.

This list is not exhaustive, costs are approximate and will vary depending on the choices you make during your course. Any rental, travel or living costs are also in addition to your course fees. If you choose to study via distance learning, you may not be able to access all of the facilities listed if you are not able to visit us on campus.

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#### Scholarships and bursaries

We are committed to ensuring that an education at Leeds Beckett University is open to all. If you're thinking of joining us for undergraduate study, you may be eligible for a non-repayable scholarship or bursary to help with the cost of university. To find out if you are be eligible visit our scholarships and bursaries page .

We also offer a range of non-repayable scholarships for international students. To find out if you may be eligible visit our scholarships for international students page and select your home country from the drop-down list.

* #### Facilities | Portland and Calverley buildings

Over the road from the Rose Bowl you’ll find specialist health facilities designed to bring your learning to life. Our £1m clinical skills suite is packed with modern equipment that gives you hands-on practical experience, and our biomedical and environmental laboratories provide state-of-the-art scientific equipment.

360° tour

* #### Facilities | Sheila Silver library

Leslie Silver is home to three lecture theatres and eight high-spec computer training rooms. It's also where you'll find our Sheila Silver Library, providing students and staff an effective and inspiring learning environment, as well as a range of support and resources to support your studies.

* #### Facilities | City campus gym

Our Woodhouse Gym is located directly above The Hive within the Students' Union. The gym offers a range of cardio equipment, free weights, machines and squat racks.

Leeds Beckett University politics courses rank in the top 20 in England

Discover what studying at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences is like. From our vibrant teaching community to world-class facilities and cutting-edge research, find out more on our school webpages. School of Humanities and Social Sciences

## Career prospects

There’s a lot to consider when choosing a course. Take a look at the team you’ll be working with, employability statistics and career prospects to help make up your mind.

#### Career Prospects

A degree in politics can open doors across the public, private, and voluntary sectors. You’ll graduate with highly transferable skills in research, communication, critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving, preparing you for careers where understanding people, policy, and power matters.

You could pursue roles in government, media, international organisations, campaigning, policy, education, the charity sector, and more. You can also choose to continue your studies with one of our postgraduate courses, including master’s degrees in Peace & Development, International Human Rights Practice, and International Relations.

Possible careers include:

* Civil servant

* Public affairs consultant

* Political aide

* Journalist

* Policy researcher

* Campaigns officer

### Graduate employment destinations

At Leeds Beckett, equipping you with strong employability skills for your future is at the heart of what we do. Some examples of employers that our BA (Hons) Politics graduates have found careers at include*:

* British Army

* Luditall Ltd

* Ministry of Justice

* The Global Procurement Group

*Based on data from the past three years (HESA Graduate Outcomes 21-24)

What can I do with a politics degree?

Alumni stories | Rosie discusses working with people experiencing homelessness

Rosie Smith BA (Hons) Politics

#### Dr Robin Redhead

Course Director / School of Humanities and Social Sciences

Dr Robin Redhead is Course Director in Politics and International Relations. She specialises in using co-production methods to bring survivors voices into policymaking environments in the field of human rights/human trafficking. She has developed partnerships in East Africa.

* R.Redhead@leedsbeckett.ac.uk

View Staff Profile

How to become a diplomat

#### Our Graduate Promise

We have a dedicated team of people who will support you with all aspects of your career planning, from day one until 18 months after you graduate.

Getting you career ready is an integral part of your university life and this is embedded throughout your lectures and seminars. Outside of your course there is a wide range of support available to help you achieve your career goals, including:

* Getting ready to apply for jobs

* Working on your CV

* Interview skills and assessment centres

* Connecting with employers and organisations

We’re ranked in the Top 10 universities in the UK for job prospects

(Student Crowd, 2025 - the only awards based entirely on student reviews).

Find out why...

Visit Beckett Careers

## Student life

At Leeds Beckett your experience is important to us, find out more about what to expect from your time on this course and life at uni.

BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations BA (Hons) Politics with International Relations student Jess talks about her experiences at Leeds Beckett.

#### Explore Leeds Beckett

Step inside our immersive 360° virtual tour and discover cutting-edge facilities, dynamic learning spaces, and everything our campus has to offer.

Take the virtual tour

With over 4000 rooms, in a wide range of accommodation types, we know you’ll find the right place for you. Accommodation

At Leeds Beckett our student support teams will work together to give you the help you need, whenever you need it. Student Support

#### Why Leeds?

With great music venues, culture, shopping, and parks - we've got it all. Leeds city centre has been named one of the Best Places to Live in the UK*.

*The Sunday Times Best Places to Live Guide, 2026

Explore Leeds

Have a question about a course, accommodation or student life at Leeds Beckett University? Chat to one of our student ambassadors

### Thinking of staying at home for your studies?

###### It’s a great option for lots of our local students

Many of our courses offer you the opportunity to travel abroad to study or volunteer, you can even do this virtually! Find out more about our global mobility opportunities

Still thinking about your uni choices? Discover Uni has official information to help you decide. They provide statistics for courses taken from national surveys and data collected from universities about their students.

## Looking for More?

Check out courses similar to Politics.

All Courses

#### Similar courses

* BA (Hons) Politics and International Relations

### International Relations

Politics and International Relations

* BA (Hons) Criminology Psychology and Sociology

### Sociology

Criminology Psychology and Sociology

* * * * A member of University Alliance

© 2026 Leeds Beckett University

### Find your country

Find out more about entry requirements, events and scholarships by clicking on find your country.

#### Africa

* Algeria

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* Cameroon

* Mauritius

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* Nigeria

* South Africa

* Tanzania

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* Uganda

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* Zimbabwe

#### Asia

* Brunei

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* Hong Kong SAR

* Indonesia

* Malaysia

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#### Europe

* Cyprus

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* Netherlands

* Norway

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* Europe (other)

#### Middle East

* Bahrain

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* Lebanon

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#### North America

* Canada

#### Can't find your country in our list?

* Rest of the world

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